Many of you have asked over several months, "is there and easier way to tie off parachute
flies than to …" (add your own description)
The answer is yes, there is.
For clarity in the photos the fly has been completed and the thread re-tied to demonstrate the
technique. You would of course have the hackle hanging by the hackle pliers in the initial steps.
Your thread would also be the appropriate color.
OK, first things first! Shorten the thread on your bobbin until just about 1/16th of an inch remains
between the tip and the shank of the fly. Pass your shortened bobbin twice over the hackle, which
has been pulled under the fly at six o'clock with the hackle pliers while you take your two wraps
to secure it.
Now, trim off the hackle, it should not unwind at this point. Again with the short bobbin take
another wrap or tow over the hackle and shank. At this point you have the hackle quite secure
to the shank and do not need to worry about further wraps over it.
Now to actually perform the tie off, take your half hitch tool and wrap the thread three times around
the shaft of the tool. Place the shaft of the half hitch toll over the end of the eye with the butt end
of the tool inclined downward.
Now, tilt the tool upward as shown and pull the half hitches onto the hook.
Repeat the process and cut the thread. You have now done a whip finish.
Put a drop of cement on the bottom of the wraps, or through the wraps with a hypodermic needle.
Go fishing and catch a bunch for me. Parachutes need not be some deep dark secret to tie. They are actually
easier than Catskill style flies once you get a few under your belt. And they catch fish when the former
will not even get a rise.
If you have any tips or techniques, send them along, most of this
material has been stolen from somebody, might as well steal your ideas
too! ~ George E. Emanuel
(Chat Room Host Muddler)
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